Green tea · Anhui, China
Liu An Gua Pian
Unique single-leaf Chinese green tea shaped like melon seeds with a sweet, smooth flavor.
How to brew
| Leaf | Water | Temperature | Time | Infusions | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Western | 3 g | 250 ml | 82°C / 180°F | 1 min 30 s | 3 |
| Gong Fu | 5 g | 100 ml | 82°C / 180°F | 20 s + | 4 |
About this tea
Liu An Gua Pian, meaning 'Liu An Melon Seed,' stands unique among world teas as the only one made exclusively from single leaves without any buds or stems. From Liu An County in Anhui Province, this tea gained fame during the Ming Dynasty and was designated as imperial tribute tea. The melon seed shape isn't just aesthetic - it represents a revolutionary processing technique.
The production is remarkably labor-intensive: only the second leaf from the top is plucked, with stems and buds meticulously removed. After withering and pan-firing, each leaf is individually shaped to resemble a melon seed through repeated heating and shaping. This process, called 'pulling the old fire,' involves roasting leaves over charcoal multiple times, developing the tea's distinctive character.
The flavor profile is smooth and distinctive: sweet melon-like notes that inspired its name, remarkably smooth with no bitterness, full-bodied despite being single leaves, and clean, refreshing finish. The unique processing creates flavors impossible to achieve with bud-and-leaf teas. The absence of buds eliminates astringency while maintaining complexity.
Brewing recommendations: Use 1 teaspoon (3g) per 250ml cup with water at 82°C (180°F), steeping for 90 seconds. The single leaves release flavor evenly. Can handle slightly higher temperatures than bud teas. Yields 3-4 consistent infusions.
Perfect for afternoon enjoyment. Pairs wonderfully with watermelon, summer fruits, and light seafood. The smooth character makes it approachable for newcomers to Chinese green tea. Despite its imperial history, the unique processing keeps it relatively affordable compared to other famous teas.
Caffeine, in context
Per 250 ml cup, brewed as directed.
Flavor profile
- melon
- sweet
- smooth
- vegetal
Health benefits
- antioxidants
- weight management
- oral health
- energy
Pairs wonderfully with
- watermelon
- light desserts
- seafood
- fresh fruit
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Frequently asked questions
Can you re-steep Liu An Gua Pian?
Yes — Liu An Gua Pian gives 4 good infusions. Start at 20 seconds and add a little time to each round.
How much caffeine is in Liu An Gua Pian?
30 mg per 250 ml cup — Medium caffeine.
What water temperature does Liu An Gua Pian need?
82°C / 180°F. Hotter water pulls out bitterness; cooler water under-extracts the leaf.
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